Motorcyclists face some unique safety risks. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that 8 in 10 motorcycle crashes result in an injury to the rider. Following a motorcycle accident, it is crucial that you are able to get the financial compensation that you need to pay your bills and support yourself.
This raises an important question: Does health insurance cover a motorcycle accident? The short answer is “it depends”—health insurance may provide certain benefits, but it will generally not cover all of your damages. Here, our Philadelphia motorcycle accident attorney highlights the key things you should know about health insurance and motorcycle crash injuries in Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania Law: Typically No PIP Coverage for Motorcycle Accidents
Pennsylvania is an “opt-out” no-fault auto insurance state. However, under Pennsylvania law, motorcycle riders are typically not covered by personal injury protection (PIP) insurance in the event of an accident. PIP insurance provides coverage for medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who is at fault in the accident. That being said, insurers in Pennsylvania are not required to—and generally do not—offer PIP coverage to motorcyclists.
Health Insurance Can Cover Some Motorcycle Accident Medical Bills (But Exceptions Apply)
In some cases, your own health insurance policy can help cover the medical expenses associated with a motorcycle accident. However, there are some important exceptions. Unfortunately, you may not be able to rely on your health coverage. Notably, some health insurance plans may actually exclude coverage for injuries sustained while operating a motorcycle. Make sure you understand the precise terms of your health insurance policy. Further, you cannot rely on your health insurance coverage for other damages, like lost wages and pain and suffering.
You Can Hold the At-Fault Party Liable for a Motorcycle Crash
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, you may be able to hold the at-fault party liable for your injuries and other damages. In order to do this, you will generally need to establish that the other party was negligent or reckless in their actions and that their conduct was a contributing factor in causing your motorcycle accident injuries.
Every motorcycle accident in Pennsylvania should be thoroughly investigated to determine exactly what went wrong. Any party that contributed to your crash should be held accountable. A Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer can help you seek compensation for the full extent of your damages, including:
- Motorcycle repairs.
- Out-of-pocket medical bills.
- Lost current and future wages.
- Pain and suffering.
- Disability or disfigurement.
Speak to Our Philadelphia, PA Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
At the Quinn Law Group, our Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer has professional skills and legal experience that you can trust. If you or your loved one was hurt in a motorcycle crash and you have questions about getting medical bills paid, we are more than ready to help. Contact us today to set up a free, no strings attached initial consultation. With a law office in Philadelphia, we handle motorcycle accident claims throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania.
